Labour Party Questions Legitimacy of FICAC’s Decision on Hon. Biman Prasad

The Fiji Labour Party today challenged the propriety and timing of a Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) statement clearing Finance Minister Biman Prasad of alleged breaches of the Political Parties Act.

In a notice “authorized by the Commissioner of FICAC,” the commission announced it was closing the case against Prasad, stating simply: “FICAC will not be prosecuting Biman Prasad.”

Labour Leader Mahendra Chaudhry described the move as “impertinent” and “highly irregular,” noting that FICAC Commissioner Barbara Malimali—whose own appointment is under a Presidential Commission of Inquiry—was sent on leave in February pending that inquiry. He pointed out that charges against Prasad were dropped the very day Malimali assumed office.

“It is not only impertinent but also highly irregular of FICAC to pre-empt the findings of a Presidential Commission of Inquiry,” Chaudhry said. “Fijians have a right to know whether this decision was made by an officer duly empowered to act, or if it reflects internal disarray and dysfunction.”

He added that such developments occurring while Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is abroad raise questions about who is actually running the country.

The Commission of Inquiry report into Malimali’s appointment is not expected until Prime Minister Rabuka’s return.